EThekwini: EThekwini Municipality Mayor Cyril Xaba has announced the city’s commitment to constructing permanent housing for families affected by recent floods. During an Executive Council meeting this week, Xaba reported that between February 19 and March 15, 2025, the floods resulted in 15 fatalities and considerable infrastructure damage.
According to South African Government News Agency, a report from the Joint Operations Centre indicated that 1,452 houses and 5,939 people were impacted by the flooding. The areas most severely affected include Inanda, Ntuzuma, KwaMashu, Pinetown, KwaDabeka, and Lamontville. Mayor Xaba extended condolences to the families of the deceased and assured that the city is working with them to ensure dignified burials for their loved ones.
Xaba, along with Premier Thamsanqa Ntuli and Trading Services Chairperson Mduduzi Nkosi, visited the affected families in Inanda and Lamontville, including those temporarily relocated to inner-city accommodations. He emphasized the joint commitment of the government to build permanent homes for these families. However, Xaba also highlighted the challenges faced in constructing these homes, noting the lack of cooperation from existing community members who may themselves be flood victims or oppose low-cost housing in their areas.
The mayor pointed out the ongoing issue of land shortages for resettling flood victims, as the city comprises 603 informal settlements, some in flood-prone areas. He stressed the importance of public awareness campaigns to discourage settling in flood plains, given the increased frequency and intensity of floods due to climate change.
EThekwini has been grappling with recurring floods since 2017, which have strained the city’s water drainage system. Xaba mentioned that while the city’s stormwater systems are designed for “1-in-10-year” storm events, recent downpours have matched the intensity expected only every 20 to 40 years. He urged community members to dispose of waste properly to prevent drainage system clogs during heavy rains, which could exacerbate flooding issues.